Maximizing Athletic Performance

There are 3 factors involved in maximizing athletic performance through training.

Strength and Conditioning

Proper Rest…Sleep

Sound diet…Nutrition

Strength & Conditioning

As a part of any quality running program, strength training is a vital component to your overall success. The following articles explain the importance of weight training for performance, but also overall health.

Foam Rolling

Foam rolling is often described as a form of “self-myofascial release” (sometimes known as SMR). “Fascia” refers to connective tissue that binds and stabilizes the muscles. By massaging it—according to the marketing claims—you not only improve your muscles’ range of motion, but you also boost blood circulation, break down tightness or knots in your muscles and bolster muscle tissue integrity.”

Impact of Sleep on PerformanceArticle from Fatigue Science stating “sleep is a weapon.” One of the most glaring importance of sleep is that you will be less likely to sustain an injury.

Nutrition

Of three three factors listed, nutrition is most often overlooked. You can follow the best workout ever written, but if you are not eating properly, your athletic gains will suffer. The food you eat is your body’s fuel. The better the food, the better your body will perform.

The subject of nutrition is saturated with misconceptions. There are NO miracle foods or supplements that will generate fantastic training plans. Effectiveness of your training is achieved by following basic sound nutrition from the food groups: meat, fruit, vegetables, grain, and dairy. These foods supply your body with the following six nutrients essential to the body’s functioning:

Water: Most important of six nutrients. It is essential in the digestive process and aids in transport of nutrients in the body. Functions as a dilute and aids in elimination of waste and regulating body temperature.